BCI writes to Law Schools urging that online classes be conducted to cover the syllabus amid COVID-19 Lockdown

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has issued a letter addressing the queries of the Vice-Chancellors, Principals and Deans of law schools clarifying that their General Council, in consultation with its Legal Education Committee, has resolved that all legal education institutions should hold online classes to cover the syllabus as far as practicable amid the COVID-19 lockdown.

The decision was taken, keeping in view the overall interest of legal education and the students. The letter adds,

"Since computer education is a compulsory protocol as per Rule-9(a)(b) of Schedule-III of Rules of Legal Education-2008, every student is supposed to be computer savvy and capable to understand and follow the regime of online classes."

Further, directions have also been issued directing that law schools may hold special extra classes and allied activities once the lockdown is lifted, to make up for the loss of normal classes and clinical education activities during this time.

BCI has clarified that it will take into consideration the implications of not conducting class room lectures, practical training and clinical legal education programs at an appropriate time and issue necessary instructions in this regard.

All Centers of Legal Education have also been directed to submit a detailed report of the actions taken in compliance with the letter by May 10.

While appreciating the National Law Universities (NLUs) and other Centers of Legal Education who have already commenced online classes, the BCI has added that is hopes that the directions contained in this letter is followed in letter and spirit by other institutions.

Read the letter here:

BCI's Letter to VC, Principal and Dean of Legal Institutions in India.pdf